Barbara L. "Barbara Lee Blake" Paton

Barbara L. Paton, 91, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Proctor Place in Peoria, Illinois. Born November 4, 1934, in Mason City, Illinois to Guy and Mildred Hernan, she was preceded in death by her parents, sister Marian Cufaude, brother Leland "Bud" Hernan, and daughter Carol Maxfield.

She was married to Donald A. Paton of Peoria and he survives. Barbara and Don lived in the

Peoria area. Also surviving are three children, John Maxfield (Donna) of Chatham, Marcia Bielser (Earl) of Mason City and Mark Maxfield (Amy) of East Peoria, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Barbara initially married Henry W. Maxfield, M.D. They had four children and resided in Mason City. She later married Glenn D. Blake, and they lived in Morton until his death.

In addition to being a wonderful wife and mother, she was active in several churches over the years, was a real estate agent and actively managed her farmland and investments. She was smart, caring, loving, resilient, strong and accomplished in everything she did. She was valedictorian of her senior class in high school. She enjoyed reading, nature and being with her family. She was an excellent cook.

A graveside service will be held at Mason City Cemetery on Tuesday March 31, 2026, at 11:30 AM with a luncheon at Do Drop In Cafe in downtown Mason City immediately following the

service.

The family would like to thank the Proctor Place health care team for their wonderful care

during Barbara's final days.